This Homemade Soft Butter Bread is a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of a soft, fluffy interior and a golden, buttery crust makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of homemade bread, fresh from your oven.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
• 1 cup warm water (200 ml) • 1 tablespoon yeast (10 grams) • 4 teaspoons sugar • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (60 ml) • 1 cup warm milk (200 ml) • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 5 cups flour (600 grams) + 30-50 grams for working with dough • 100 grams butter
Directions:
Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- Activate Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add vegetable oil, warm milk, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
Incorporate Flour:
- Add Flour:
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Knead the Dough:
- Knead:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
- Let Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
- Punch Down and Shape:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into desired portions. Shape each portion into a loaf or rolls and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Butter the Dough:
- Brush with Butter:
- Melt the butter and brush it generously over the top of each loaf or roll.
Second Rise:
- Let Rise Again:
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake Bread:
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Final Touch:
- Brush with Butter:
- Remove the bread from the oven and brush with more melted butter while still warm.
Detailed Information:
Nutritional Benefits:
This homemade bread is a healthier option compared to store-bought bread, as it contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients. The use of vegetable oil and butter adds a rich flavor, while the warm milk helps create a soft and tender crumb.
Ingredient Tips:
- Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.
- Milk: Use warm milk, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten, giving the bread its structure and chewiness.
- Rising: Ensure the dough is kept in a warm, draft-free place to rise. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with just the light on.
Variations:
- Herb Butter Bread: Add finely chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the melted butter for brushing.
- Cheese Bread: Sprinkle grated cheese on the dough before rolling it into loaves or rolls.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Butter: Serve warm with a generous spread of butter.
- Sandwiches: Use for making sandwiches or toast.
- Soup: Pair with a bowl of your favorite soup for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts:
This Homemade Soft Butter Bread is a versatile and delicious addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to bread making, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. The golden crust and soft, fluffy interior make it a family favorite. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Bon appétit!